T. H. I. N. K.

Social media platforms can provide instant communication to large numbers of people and the capacity for messages to go “viral”, connecting with millions within a short period of time. This is both an amazing opportunity for the gospel to spread and a deep responsibility, especially for Christ-followers who are called to be positive and winsome witnesses to our Lord.

The members of the Ministry Board of LCMC often find ourselves discussing the challenges faced by pastors and congregations and the occasional conflict that arises. In many of these situations, people take to social media to share or ventilate their feelings. In a recent meeting we decided to share some of our thinking with the hope it may help each of us THINK more carefully about our use of social media.

When we talk with others, either privately or publicly, our expectation is that the people of faith will be above reproach in their communications in all forms. In each of our online interactions we would do well to be mindful of James 1:19:

be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry.

All public or private confrontation should be guided by James 3, Matthew 18, along with Luther’s explanation of the 8th commandment to not bear false witness.

A helpful acronym for discerning appropriateness of our online interactions is T.H.I.N.K.:

Is it True?

Is it Helpful?

Is it Inspiring?

Is it Necessary?

Is it Kind?

Below we’ve also provided some helpful and thoughtful links to online articles written especially for Pastors.